January 23, 2008

Plan Sponsor

Employees Back Workplace Wellness Efforts

Many employees have apparently gotten the message about the benefits of healthy living and look for help in achieving that goal from their employer. That was a key finding of a new survey by employee assistance program provider ComPsych Corporation, according to a news release.

ComPsych found 42 percent of employees said they were highly motivated to eat right, and nearly a quarter (23 percent) said they were highly motivated to exercise. If their employers sponsored a wellness program, another 67 percent of employees said they would be likely to use it.

“Employees recognize the need for healthier habits and many have made New Year’s resolutions to make changes,” said Richard A. Chaifetz, chairman and CEO of ComPsych. “But we are still seeing a general lack of accountability for achieving personal health. Workers are seeking outside motivation (such as through personal trainers and a healthier workplace) for health improvement.”